October 27, 2012 Manitoga

the trail began with a big uphill

we crossed a brook on this bridge...the only bridge we had for three crossings

The 2nd crossing was a little dicey.  Thankfully we had the help of the 2 Johns and Pat.

We walked over a large area of moss...very soft on the feet.

Our second bridgeless crossing was a little easier.

colorful caterpiller

interesting rock striations

Russell Wright's home barely visible top center.  We couldn't walk there.

Another view of his home and the waterfalls

another view of his home

don't know where the steps led as they were labeled private

We saw this doe while driving through cemetery on way home.

     It was a dreary day but a dozen of us gathered at Manitoga [and it didn't stop me from taking a lot of pictures].  We started out with an uphill and climbed up quite a bit after that.  The going was quite rocky in places and we crossed a brook three times--only once with a bridge.  Most of us seemed to enjoy the walk although at least one of our group has crossed it off her bucket list.
     After the walk six of us ate at a Garrison Cafe on Route 9D.  It was ok but we probably won't go back. 

October 20, 2012 Dutchess Rail Trail-Diddell Road

          There were 12 of us that made it to the Diddell Road parking area.  Not knowing Dutchess County that well, I made an assumption that caused the directions to be a bit confusing.  I hope that no one  missed out due to the confusion.  It was another wonderful fall day.  Some of us walked abut 2 1/2 miles and the rest of the group walked on for 3+. 
     As usual some of us [six] enjoyed brunch after the walk.  This time we tried Cafe Tomas [946 Route 376 at Summerlin...their card says Wappingers Falls but I thought they were in Hopewell].  The food was good and I think most of us went home with some of their delicious pastries.

we're on our way from the parking area

a farm near the parking area.  there was a horse, I think they're alpacas but could be lamas [not pictured donkey & pony]

October 13, 2012 Roosevelt Estate

sculpture at beginning of trail

we're off

last time we we were here they were working on this dam

what a great group!!

the Hudson River in the background

Roosevelt's home from the trail

     It was a beautiful fall day once we got over the early morning chill.  There was ice on my car when I started it.  Fourteen of us enjoyed the walk.  Afterward, six of us enjoyed breakfast at the Everready Diner in Hyde Park.